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String game: Stethoscope

String games have been passed down from generation to generation. This 'stethoscope' string figure is based on two other string formations. It's a good one to learn as it looks tricky but once you watch our how-to video and you'll see how easy it actually is.

Number of Players:

1+

What You Need:

100cm long piece of string, looped and tied together at the ends

Activity:

To make a stethoscope (also known as the elephant's nose) string formation, you'll have to first make a cup and saucer and an Eiffel Tower string formation. Watch the video to show you how to make these and then follow the written instructions below to make the stethoscope.

Step 1: Start with the string behind your thumbs and pinkies, running across both palms.

Step 2: With your right hand, reach across to the left hand and hook the string that runs across the left palm.

Step 3: Pull your hands apart.

Step 4: Do the same with the other hand.

Step 5: Pull your hands apart again.

Step 6: With your thumbs, reach over the first pointer finger string and under the second pointer finger string. Pull your thumbs back towards your body - there will be two loops on each thumb.

Step 7: Using your teeth (easiest) or pinkie fingers (if you’re feeling dexterous), pull the bottom string off your thumbs and pass it over the top string.